With its narrow columnar habit of growth, this evergreen forms tall, dark green columns 40 to 60 feet in height in the western United States but are often much shorter. Trees are normally no more than three feet wide. The scale-like leaves lend a very fine texture to any setting. Planted three feet apart, they make a dense screen. Italian Cypress is often used for framing, as a strong accent around large buildings, or in the formal landscape but does not lend itself well to many home landscapes. Italian cypresses are recommended for narrow spaces. Reportedly, the roots are deep enough to not be shallow obstacles to mowing and gardening or damaging to buildings and sidewalks.